Karachi: Although the strong smell of crude was slowly dissipating the two beaches of Karachi have been closed for the people.

Police and paramilitary troops are patrolling to prevent the people to come to the beaches.

Dead fish and turtles are seen at the beach. The real threat lies in the Southern coast which is a breeding place for green turtles, the scientists say.

The salvage work is underway but it is a time-consuming process which can even take months.

Around 12,000 tonnes of crude has spilled into the sea. The Tasman Spirit, carrying 67,500 tonnes of crude, was grounded just outside the channel leading to the Karachi Port on July 27 and three attempts to tow it away had failed, although some oil had been removed.

Authorities in Karachi said only six km of coast has been affected and damage to the marine life was minimal.

ANI